Matthew 11:20-24 Woe to Unrepentant Cities

Jesus began to declare publicly the evil of certain cities. While he is disapproving of their behavior, let’s not miss out on his disappointment expressed through woes. A woe is not a curse, but an interjection of denunciation and grief. Why? Because most of Jesus’ mighty works were performed in them and they did not repent. Chorazin and Bethsaida (its name means house of fish) were small fishing villages around the Sea of Galilee. Peter, Andrew, and Phillip were from Bethsaida. Jesus compares them with Tyre and Sidon - cities that during Old Testament times opposed God and his prophets and were judged for it. If Tyre and Sidon had seen what they have seen they would have repented (sackloth as a garment and ashes either on the head or sitting on them were used in mourning). Therefore, in the day of judgment they will suffer more than Tyre and Sidon, indicating different levels of judgment.

Capernaum was a busy city near the Sea of Galillee. It was on the highway between Damascus and Acco. Jesus compares it to Sodom, a city that during Old Testament times stood for sin and was destroyed by God. He says it would still be around if the mighty works Capernaum witnessed had been performed there. Today, Capernaum lies in ruins just like Chorazin and Bethsaida. And the people who lived there will have to face the Lord on the day of judgment in the future. An encounter with Jesus and his gospel requires a response. Jesus’ followers are those who have responded with repentance to his work and message. Repentance is a change of mind. It is an acceptance of our sinful, rebellious state with God and a decision to seek his forgiveness and reconciliation. If we reject Jesus and his message, woe to us! Ruin awaits us in this life and judgment in the life to come.

Lord, have mercy on me, a sinner. Forgive my sins and restore my soul to be in fellowship with you. Grant me a truly repentant heart that seeks after you all the days of my life. Spare me from the fate of Chorazin, Bethsaida, and Capernaum!